‘American Idol’ Gives Back. Pretty Much.

Before we get to the serious, let’s get to the fun! Here’s snaps from the taping of Idol Gives Back. Some of these people are making this show about their own favorite charity – themselves! Paula Abdul thinks she’s visiting La Isla Bonita. Carrie Underwood wants to change the title of the show to America Gives Back To Carrie Underwood For Brightening Our Lives. Fergie got herself some pants, which are sure to repel urine. And Annie Lennox loves AIDS!

On the serious side, where does all the American Idol Gives Back money go anyway? They raised 76 million dollars last year for domestic and international charities. Officials in charge aren’t releasing a formal accounting of last year’s take. This isn’t as shady as it sounds as officials from Charity Projects Entertainment Fund, the organizers, say that they’re being audited and a full accounting will be released in May, which is the deadline for charities.

Nine poverty-fighting charities in the US were awarded 68 million from last year’s money. And then there are the costs of running the organization. But did you know they still haven’t actually spent all of it? Five million dollars are yet to be distributed. I’m in need!